Tennessee football got its spring practice period started on Monday morning, but was without one of its star defenders. Returning linebacker Arion Carter was not seen in the portion open to the media.
After practice, Vols head coach Josh Heupel met with the media for a press conference. He updated the status of his roster, saying it was in an overall ‘pretty healthy spot’. He did note that Carter was one of the guys working through an injury, though.
“I feel like we’re in a pretty healthy spot right now,” Heupel said. “There’s a couple guys that are still working through postseason injuries, Arion Carter right now. But all those guys have done a really good job in their rehab right now.”
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Carter was forced to miss some time this past 2025 season due to turf toe, but still racked up 76 tackles, 1.5 sacks, a forced fumble and a fumble recovery in 10 games. He was the starting weakside linebacker for the team when healthy.
After that junior season, Carter entered his name into the NFL draft. However, at the deadline, he removed his name and entered the transfer portal. Heupel, the new defensive staff and returning linebackers coach William Inge did enough to convince him to return, though.
Carter projects as a key piece in a stacked linebacker room. The unit returns Edwin Spillman, Jeremiah Telander, Jadon Perlotte, Jaedon Harmon and Jordan Burns.
UT also brings in a transfer at the position. Out of Penn State, Amare Campbell committed early in the cycle. He has experience in Jim Knowles’ system, and could be pivotal in helping the defense adjust to his style of play.
Tennessee also has two very highly-rated freshmen signed and on campus for spring ball. Both Brayden Rouse and TJ White were highly recruited four-stars who could make immediate impacts.
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